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WELCOME

At Irvington Public Schools, we are proud to offer a high-quality preschool program designed to nurture and support your child’s development. Our program uses the Creative Curriculum, a research-based, developmentally appropriate approach that focuses on fostering a love for learning through hands-on experiences. We believe that children learn best when they are actively engaged in exploring the world around them.

MISSION

The mission of the Early Childhood Department is to provide an inclusive, high-quality educational program for all preschool-aged children residing in the township of Irvington. We are dedicated to understanding and meeting each child’s intellectual, social, and physical needs, fostering development through age-appropriate, child-centered, and active learning practices. Recognizing the family as the cornerstone of a child’s development, we are committed to working in collaboration with families, stakeholders, and the broader community to ensure the success of every child.

GOALS

The goals of the Early Childhood Department are designed to provide developmentally appropriate active-learning opportunities that lead to the exposure and mastery of Core Content Standards of Quality as stated in the New Jersey Preschool Teaching and Learning Standards. These
opportunities are organized through small group instruction, large group instruction, individualized instruction, and structured play. Our goals are as follows:

  1. Promote Inclusive Education
    Ensure that all children, regardless of ability or background, have equal access to high-quality preschool education in a supportive, nurturing environment.
  2. Foster Holistic Development
    Implement developmentally appropriate practices that address each child’s intellectual, social, emotional, and physical growth.
  3. Encourage Active Learning
    Cultivate a child-centered learning environment where curiosity and exploration are encouraged through hands-on, interactive experiences.
  4. Strengthen Family and Community Engagement
    Build strong partnerships with families, stakeholders, and community members to support the shared goal of every child’s success.
  5. Prepare Children for Lifelong Learning
    Equip children with the foundational skills necessary for academic success and social-emotional well-being, ensuring they are prepared for future educational experiences.
  6. Support Professional Growth for Educators
    Provide ongoing professional development and resources to teachers to maintain the highest standards of instruction and care.

KEY FEATURES OF OUR PRESCHOOL PROGRAM

  • Inclusive Learning Environment: We celebrate diversity and welcome children of all backgrounds and abilities. Our classrooms are designed to accommodate different learning styles, ensuring that every child can thrive.
  • Experienced Educators: Our teachers are highly trained in early childhood education and are passionate about nurturing the whole child—socially, emotionally, and academically. They provide individualized support to help each child reach their full potential.
  • Developmentally Appropriate Curriculum: The Creative Curriculum focuses on active learning, allowing children to engage in meaningful experiences that promote cognitive, social, emotional, and physical development.
  • Engaging Learning Areas: Our classrooms feature a variety of interest areas, including dramatic play, art, science, literacy, and more, encouraging children to explore their interests and build essential skills.
  • Community Connections: We believe in the power of partnerships with families and the community. We strive to keep families involved and informed, creating a strong support network for our young learners.